Proliferate
mediumproh-LIF-uh-rayt
verb
Definition
To increase rapidly in numbers; multiply
Examples
“Fast food restaurants have proliferated across the country.”
“Misinformation proliferates quickly on social media.”
Categories
GRE Tip
Proliferate is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "multiply" or "burgeon" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "decrease".
Related GRE Words
augment
To make something greater by adding to it; increase
burgeon
To begin to grow or increase rapidly; flourish
ephemeral
Lasting for a very short time; transitory
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
benevolent
Well-meaning and kindly; generous and charitable
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
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